Hey Bucs Fans,
Wow! I cannot believe how fast the last four years has flown by. It feels like yesterday that I checked the final team list as a rookie back in 2011, hoping to see name. I wanted so much to make this team after not making it two years prior. I gave it one more shot and finally my dreams came true.
Moving to Tampa at a young age, my mom enrolled me and my little brother into the Big Brothers/ Big Sisters organization. During that time, I was able to attend several Buccaneers games. It was life changing. I fell in love with not only the cheerleaders, but also the support that the Buccaneers organization showed to our community.
As a cheerleader, I never lost sight of that feeling. This experience gave me endless opportunities to reach out to our local charities, schools and various athletic events. Over the years, many people have said that I've changed their lives, but the truth is that they've changed mine.
One of my favorite memories was interacting with the junior cheerleaders. Every year the Buccaneers organization gives hundreds of girls the opportunity to practice with us, work alongside us one-on-one and then cheer at the first halftime show with us! I had the pleasure of meeting some incredible young ladies who will forever be a part of my life.
I had the privilege of being "Cheerleader of the Game" my second year at the Military Appreciation Game. The Buccaneers honored and recognized my older brother, Bryan, for his 14 years of commitment to the Navy. This was the highlight of my cheerleading career. It meant so much to my family and me that this organization cared so much. We will be forever grateful.
Thank you to my loving family and friends who never stopped believing in me. I wouldn't have been able to get through the past four years without them. It meant the world to me knowing I had their support as they attended each and every one of my games to cheer me on. Through tryouts, intense practices and emotional times, I have always had my teammates to lean on. Each year I gained not only friends but also true sisters for life. I will always cherish the bonds that were made and for that I have my coaches to thank.
And, of course, this organization wouldn't be anything without our Bucs Fans! You, the fans, truly inspired me to continue to follow my dream. As I have decided to hang up my boots, I will never forget this incredible journey. I'm so thankful and truly blessed.
Leaving as a Captain, I sincerely hope that I have left my mark somehow, someway to someone. I always tried to give it my best and show God's love. No matter how tough your dreams seem, with patience and hard work you can achieve anything you put your mind to.
Thank you for changing my life! Never forget... It's a Bucs Life For Me!
God Bless,
Darla Faye
